Effective data governance is important for all organisations in the digital age. It ensures that information is trustworthy, doesn’t get misused and is consistent, while aiding analytics and decision-making.

Never have governments had so much access to data that could enhance productivity and change the way they facilitate public services. Ensuring data is protected, well managed and complies with legal requirements is therefore crucial if this precious resource is utilised effectively and in a way that safeguards personal privacy. One MENA government’s central data governance authority sought to ensure that a clear framework was in place to do just that – but finding the right person – or people – to oversee the organization and the important work it does.

Hyphen identified experts capable of providing government ministers with practical advice.

The country in question decided to create a new chief data governance officer role and our client, a leading global consultancy firm, was pitching to assist the government on this matter.

However, with data growing in quality, quantity and importance over recent decades, selecting the perfect candidate for this position was key. Outlining what makes for an effective chief data governance officer was crucial, as was providing the knowledge to help the labour ministry develop detailed processes suitable for day-to-day use.

To do this, we launched an exhaustive and detailed search, identifying and collating a list of suitable experts. Having assessed their backgrounds and experience, Hyphen approached three specialists who were deemed the best fit for this task. We spoke with each of them and gave them the context they needed to effectively assist our client, with all three swiftly signalling their interest.

Our hand-picked trio of experts provided the client with the insights to impress government officials.

All three specialists joined the client for their presentation, with one attending a key workshop and making a particularly notable impression on public sector leaders. While our client’s bid for this work was ultimately unsuccessful, one thing remains clear: adding our experts’ experience and intellect was hugely beneficial and gave the consulting firm valuable insights into what was needed.

In fact, two of the three experts have proven themselves to be so valuable that we have worked with them on multiple data-related engagements since this initial undertaking. We have found specialists capable of transforming the way numerous types of organizations look at the increasingly important topic of data governance.